Ten terrific books about giving thanks

By Erin Nguyen, Children’s Department, Knox County Public Library

Bear Says Thanks
By Karma Wilson
Reading level: PreK – 2nd
When all his forest friends bring items for a feast, Bear is worried that he won’t be able to show his gratitude, but they reassure him that just being himself is all the thanks they need.

An Awesome Book of Thanks
By Dallas Clayton
Reading level: PreK – 3rd
A joyful message of gratitude for things both expected and unexpected.

Thank You, World
By Alice B. McGinty
Reading level: K – 2nd
A multicultural tribute to the gifts of the natural world, from the earth and skies to the creatures all around us.

A Kiss for Little Bear
By Else Holmelund Minarik
Reading level: K – 2nd
When Little Bear’s grandmother receives a painting from him that makes her happy, she finds a creative way to send her appreciation back to him.

Junie B., First Grader: Turkeys We Have Loved and Eaten (and Other Thankful Stuff)
By Barbara Park
Reading level: K – 3rd
The kids in Junie B.’s first grade class find that there’s more to be thankful for at Thanksgiving than just the delicious food.Strength, and Wisdom, designed to lead to a happy, productive life.

Giving Thanks: A Native American Good Morning Message
By Chief Jake Swamp
Reading level: K – 6th
This lovely book is based on a traditional message of peace and appreciation of Mother Earth by the Native people of the Six Nations of upstate New York and Canada.

Thank You, Sarah
By Laurie Halse Anderson
Reading level: 2nd – 5th
In the mid-1800’s the holiday of Thanksgiving in America was in danger of being lost forever until it was saved by a determined woman named Sarah Hale.

Turkey Monster Thanksgiving
By Anne Warren Smith
Reading level: 2nd – 5th
After her parents’ divorce, Katie thinks that the only way she and her father and brother can be a real family is to host a traditional Thanksgiving feast with all the trimmings, until she learns what Thanksgiving is really all about.

Thank You, Mr. Falker
By Patricia Polacco
Reading level: 3rd – 6th
This autobiographical story is author Polacco’s thank you letter to the patient teacher who changed her life by helping her learn to read.

Stargirl
By Jerry Spinelli
Reading level: 6th – 12th
When the unusual Stargirl begins school at Leo’s high school, he is swept away by her ability to show gratitude for all the people around her and the little things they do.